Dnipropetrovsk Oblast is a region of Ukraine located in the country’s southeastern part. It is home to a diverse array of birds, ranging from migratory species to year-round residents.
The region is within the Western Palearctic ecozone, making it an ideal bird-watching destination. The area is rich in wetland and dryland habitats, providing food, shelter, and bird nesting sites.
The region also has a mild climate, making it an attractive area for birding year-round. There are over 300 species of birds in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, making it a bird-watcher’s paradise.
Birders can expect to see a variety of species, such as raptors, waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, and many more. Whether you are an experienced birder or just starting, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast is an excellent bird-watching destination.
6 Birds to Watch in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast
Dnipropetrovsk Oblast is a region of Ukraine located in the country’s southeastern part. It is home to a diverse array of birds, ranging from migratory species to year-round residents. The region is within the Western Palearctic ecozone, making it an ideal bird-watching destination.
Here are six birds that you should not miss when visiting Dnipropetrovsk Oblast:
1. Egyptian Vulture
The Egyptian Vulture is a species of Old World vulture and is the only species to be included in the genus Neophron. It is found in various habitats, from the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa to India.
The Egyptian Vulture is also known as the white scavenger vulture or pharaoh’s chicken due to its distinctive white plumage and bald head. This species of Vulture feeds on carrion, invertebrates, and eggs, and it is an essential member of the ecological communities it inhabits.
It also plays a vital role in maintaining balance in the food chain by helping to reduce the spread of disease. Unfortunately, the Egyptian Vulture is threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and other human-related disturbances, and its population is declining.
It is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, and conservation efforts must be made to ensure its continued survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Neophron |
| Species | N. percnopterus |
2. Booted Eagle
The booted eagle is a type of prey found in the Palearctic and southern Asia. It migrates to the tropics of Africa and Asia for winter, but there is a small breeding population in southwestern Africa.
This bird belongs to the Accipitridae family, including all eagles. It is a medium-sized bird with a wide distribution.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Hieraaetus |
| Species | H. pennatus |
3. Montagu’s Harrier
Montagu’s harrier is a bird of prey that belongs to the harrier family. It is known for migrating over long distances and is found in both Europe and Asia.
The bird’s common name is a tribute to the British naturalist George Montagu, a prominent figure in the field of ornithology. Montagu was born in 1753 and worked as a naturalist for over fifty years.
He studied birds and other animals, wrote about his findings, and documented the habitat of many species. He was mainly known for his work on the harrier family of birds, and his research helped to further the understanding of bird migration.
Montagu’s harrier was named after him in recognition of his contribution to the field of ornithology.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Circus |
| Species | C. pygargus |
4. Saker Falcon
The saker falcon is a large species of falcon that is found in many areas of the world. It is native to central Europe and extends eastwards across the Palearctic to Manchuria.
This falcon species is mainly migratory, with some exceptions in the southernmost parts of its range. During winter, it migrates to Ethiopia, the Arabian peninsula, northern Pakistan, and western China.
The saker falcon is a large bird of prey that can reach lengths of up to 60 centimeters and have wingspans of up to 1.5 meters. It has brown and white plumage, light-colored eyes, and a black beak. Its diet consists mainly of small mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects.
The species is mainly found in open habitats such as steppes, semi-desert and dry grasslands. It usually nests on the ground, building a shallow bowl of sticks and grass.
The species is currently listed as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, as it has a large and stable population.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Falconiformes |
| Family | Falconidae |
| Genus | Falco |
| Species | F. cherrug |
5. Short-toed Snake Eagle
The Short-toed Snake Eagle, also called the Short-Toed Eagle, is a type of diurnal raptor. This means it is a bird of prey and belongs to the family Accipitridae. This family also includes a variety of other raptors, such as kites, buzzards, and harriers.
This species’ scientific name is Circaetus, derived from the Ancient Greek words “kirkos” and “aetos”. “Kirkos” is a type of hawk, while “aetos” is the word for eagle.
The scientific name of this species perfectly encapsulates its characteristics, as it is both a hawk-like bird and an eagle.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Circaetus |
| Species | C. gallicus |
6. Long-legged Buzzard
The long-legged buzzard is a bird of prey found in many Eurasia and North Africa regions. It can be found in areas ranging from Southeast Europe to East Africa and even across the northern parts of the Indian subcontinent.
This species belongs to the genus Buteo, a group of birds known for their large size. The long-legged buzzard is one of the more prominent species from this same genus. This species is a mighty hunter, and it typically preys on small mammals, reptiles, and insects.
It has an impressive wingspan can often be seen soaring high in the sky. Its long legs are ideal for hunting and provide incredible agility, allowing it to swoop down and capture its prey quickly and easily.
The long-legged buzzard is an impressive species, and its remarkable wingspan and agility make it a fantastic sight to behold.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Buteo |
| Species | B. rufinus |
Conclusion
The birds in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast are diverse and fascinating, with many species of migratory and resident birds. The region is an important stopover point for migrating birds and provides a unique opportunity to observe and study the region’s birds.
The number of species in the region is impressive, and the unique habitats provide an ideal environment for the birds of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.